Estate Sale Tips
Welcome back to Mae’s Thrift Tips! If you love a good bargain and hunting for hidden gems, then estate sales are a must. But I know what you’re thinking—how do you even find them? Well, today I’m spilling the secret that the gatekeepers don’t want you to know. (Sorry, guys!)
The number one question I get asked is: How do you find out about estate sales? And the answer is so simple… it’s an app!
The Estate Sale Secret: EstateSales.net
Yes, you heard that right. The easiest way to find estate sales near you is by using EstateSales.net. This app is a total game-changer for thrift lovers, antique hunters, and deal-seekers alike. Here’s why I love it:
✔ Customized Searches – You can filter estate sales by location, so you only see the ones closest to you. No more aimless driving around!
✔ Sale Schedules – The app shows you exactly when and where sales are happening, so you never miss out on a good one.
✔ Photo Previews – See pictures of what’s available before you even leave the house. This helps you decide if it’s worth your time.
✔ RSVP Options – Some sales require you to RSVP, and the app makes it super easy to do that.
Pro Tips for Estate Sale Success
Now that you know where to find estate sales, here are a few tips to make the most of your treasure hunts:
1️⃣ Arrive Early – The best items go fast! If you see something good in the preview photos, be there when the doors open.
2️⃣ Bring Cash – While some sales accept cards, cash is always a safe bet and can sometimes help with negotiating a better price.
3️⃣ Be Respectful – Remember, estate sales often happen due to major life transitions, so be kind and courteous.
4️⃣ Negotiate Wisely – Prices are usually firm on the first day but may be more flexible later in the sale. Day two is usually 25% off, and the last day is typically 50% off—so be there at opening! If you want the absolute best deal, go an hour before the sale ends on the last day. That’s when sellers are most willing to make amazing deals.
So there you have it—the inside scoop on how to find the best estate sales near you! Go download EstateSales.net and start planning your next thrift adventure. Happy hunting! 🛍️✨
Have you scored any amazing finds at an estate sale? Share your best thrifted treasures in the comments below!
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How To: Crown Moulding
DIY Crown Moulding: Upgrade Your Space Like a Pro!
Looking to add a touch of elegance to your home? Installing your own crown moulding is a game-changer, and guess what? You can totally do it yourself! Let me walk you through the process so you can transform your space with confidence.
Step 1: Finding the Right Crown Moulding
I found this amazing brand called Orac Decor on Amazon a few years ago when we gave our bedroom a makeover (linked here). Back then, I hired someone for the job, but now I’ve installed this crown in my blue guest bathroom and my sunroom.
This crown moulding is made from high-density polyurethane foam, which means it's super lightweight and easy(ish) to work with.
Step 2: Plan Before You Buy
Order samples to see which design suits your space best. Hold them up against your ceiling to visualize the final look.
Measure your space carefully.
Add 15% extra to your measurement to account for mistakes and waste.
Once you’ve chosen your design and confirmed your measurements, place your order and get ready for install.
Step 3: Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, gather your tools and materials to make installation smoother:
🛠 Tools and Materials
Crown Moulding Pieces (I used Orac Decor Crown Moulding)
Adhesive (I used Orac Decor Adhesive by Outwater: Pro and Extra)
Baby Wipes
Step 4: Installation Time!
This video is my go-to because the creator explains measuring and installation SO well. Installing crown is a little complicated and writing it all out would be very wordy, so for a very detailed explanation, I HIGHLY recommending watching the video from Home RenoVision DIY. Note: I use a different adhesive than he does.
✅ Mark the studs using a stud finder. I use brad nails to hold the crown up while the adhesive dries so I pencil on the wall where my studs are so I know where to put in my brad nails.
✅ Measure twice, cut once. Seriously, this will save you a ton of frustration. Take your time to double-check your measurements before cutting.
✅ Practice first! Before making final cuts, use scrap pieces to get comfortable with the cutting angles.
✅ Cutting crown moulding is the biggest hurdle.You need to cut it upside down and backwards on the miter saw—this ensures it fits properly at the correct angle. If your crown isn’t too chunky, you can use a jig, but I’ve only been able to use a jig with the smaller crown I used in my sunroom. The crown in my bedroom and blue bathroom was too thick for the jig. Again, I highly recommend this video to learn cutting techniques.
✅ Apply the adhesive to all of the touch points. I recommend using the Orac Decor adhesive by Outwater—it’s designed specifically for polyurethane mouldings and creates a strong bond.
I use “Pro” to adhere the moulding pieces to the wall and “Extra” to connect the corners and edges of the moulding pieces together!
✅ Secure the crown to the wall with brad nails into the studs. These help hold the moulding in place while the adhesive dries.
Step 5: The Finishing Touches
This is where your project really shines! Take your time with these final steps:
Caulk the gaps to give a seamless finish. Run a thin bead of paintable caulk along the edges and smooth it out. I like using cheap baby wipes for this, but you can also use your finger and a damp paper towel.
Fill nail holes with wood filler, let it dry, then sand it smooth.
Paint your crown. Use a high-quality brush or sprayer for an even coat.
Step 6: Step Back & Admire Your Work!
And just like that—bada boom, bada bam—your space looks luxurious! 🎉 Crown moulding instantly elevates any room, giving it a refined, custom feel.
If you’ve been intimidated by crown moulding, I promise it’s doable. Take your time, be patient with the cuts, and enjoy the transformation. You got this—happy DIY-ing!
